Worcester to get second Mass. Zoup! location

Worcester will get the second Massachusetts location of the soup, salads and sandwiches chain Zoup! when it opens on Main Street on Thursday.

The only other Zoup! location in New England is in Natick, but the chain has said Massachusetts is being targeted as part of its expansion strategy. No specifics were given on exactly where the chain may open in Massachusetts or how many locations it has planned.

The Worcester store, a franchise location owned by Mark and Lori Fox, is at 375 Main St., about two blocks north of City Hall. The location will employ 18 people.

Zoup!, which is based in the Detroit area, has more than 100 locations throughout the United States and Canada.

On Wednesday, the day before the official grand opening, the new restaurant will host a fundraiser between 4:30-7 p.m. benefiting Abby's House, which provides shelter and affordable housing in Worcester for women and children. For a $5 donation, guests can get a bowl of soup, bread and a small fountain drink, with all proceeds benefiting Abby's House.